Embakasi East MP Babu Owino has once again captured the attention of Kenyans, this time on a personal note.
Celebrating his 35th birthday on October 10, which coincided with Mazingira Day, Owino received a flood of goodwill from Kenyans via Mpesa, amounting to a staggering Ksh370,000. The lawmaker took to X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, to express his gratitude, stating, "A big thank you to all Kenyans who are sending me Mpesa for my birthday today."
Despite the outpouring of support, Owino was quick to ask Kenyans to hold off on sending more money, highlighting the financial hardships many are facing. "We are at 370K so far. I suggest you stop, please. That money, let it do something else. I really feel what you are going through as a Kenyan. God bless you all," he added.
Owino’s popularity has surged recently, not just for his outspoken stance on national issues but also for his connection with everyday Kenyans. His refusal to shy away from taking on the government, especially after several members of the opposition Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) joined President William Ruto’s Cabinet, has cemented his place as a key player in Kenya’s political landscape. Many view him as a rare voice still holding the government to account, especially in light of Raila Odinga’s recent cooperation with Ruto.
This week, Babu Owino once again made headlines when he skipped a Parliamentary session to impeach Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua on October 8. His absence did not go unnoticed, and Owino later explained on X that his priorities lay elsewhere. He stated that while Parliament was debating the DP's impeachment, he chose to focus on more critical issues for his constituents.
Owino has consistently been vocal on various matters, from the controversial plan to hand over the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to India’s Adani Group to the new Social Health Insurance Fund (SHIF). He has also taken strong positions on high taxation and the New University Funding Model, making it clear that he would rather engage in these debates than political theatrics.
In February, he led recovery efforts in his constituency after a devastating gas explosion left seven dead and over 280 injured. His quick response, mobilising resources from the government and private donors, endeared him to many residents. He has been at the forefront, helping to rebuild the community and advocating for justice for the victims.
Despite the challenges facing the country, from economic hardships to political turmoil, Babu Owino has maintained a unique bond with his constituents. His decision to forgo certain political debates in favour of addressing issues like unemployment, taxation, and healthcare shows a focus on what truly matters to everyday Kenyans.
Babu's birthday gifts from the public could be seen as a reflection of the appreciation and trust many have in him. His message to Kenyans, urging them to redirect their generosity towards more pressing causes, is a testament to his awareness of the struggles many face.
At 35, Owino seems poised to remain a strong voice in Kenyan politics, continuing to navigate both personal and national challenges with a keen sense of purpose.
Even as the MP continues to make headlines, one thing remains clear—Babu Owino’s influence stretches beyond the walls of Parliament, with Kenyans rallying behind him, whether in times of crisis or celebration.
